Theoretical Applications in Children and Youth Information Behavior Research: 1999–2019

Abstract

ABSTRACTChildren and youth information behavior (CYIB) research has grown substantially in the past two decades. However, this research lacks systematic analysis of the scholarly journal literature, especially with respect to theoretical applications. This study content‐analyzed articles published in fourteen key scholarly journals covering 1999 to 2019. The findings revealed that of the 893 articles retrieved from five online databases, 22.6% were relevant to theory use. Of these, 116 articles (60%) were theoretically grounded in theories or models. There was considerable growth in the use of theories as frameworks for the 2010–2019 period, as compared to the 1999–2009 period. Five key journals contributed the highest number of articles with theories or models applied as frameworks. Authors used more models than theories to ground their work. There was a frequent mention of theories or models in various sections of the articles, especially the introduction and review of the literature. The findings make a unique contribution to our understanding of the nature of theory use in CYIB research, its applications, and evolution over time, as well as strengths, weaknesses, and trends. This study has implications for LIS education, research, and practice. It also has theoretical and methodological implications.